CHAPTER V. 



MEANS OF DEFENCE OF THE LARVA. 



THERE is, perhaps, no period in the life of an in- 

 sect when it is so much in danger of the attacks 

 of foes, as when it is in the larva state. Possessed, 

 at the best, with but very feeble powers of loco- 

 motion, in comparison with those of winged in- 

 sects, it is continually exposed to destruction on 

 all sides, from which it has not the power to escape. 

 Not only do insects of various species particularly 

 select the larva for the object of their attacks, but 

 birds and other creatures are also in the lists 

 against them. Thus imperilled, what chance has 

 the larva against foes so numerous, and in a con- 

 test so unequal ? It has been calculated that a 

 pair of sparrows, for their own consumption, and 

 for that of their tender brood, destroy at least 

 three thousand caterpillars in a week ! and we 

 well know what multitudes of larvae fall into the 



